Study Status: Completed
Recruit Status: Completed
Study Type: Interventional
Official Title: Effect of Therapeutic Thoracentesis on Cardiopulmonary Function in Patients With Congestive Heart Failure Complicated With Large to Massive Pleural Effusion
Brief Summary: Transudative pleural effusions are a common manifestation of patients with congestive heart failure. Severe dyspnea and respiratory failure may develop in those with large effusions, which in general show poor response to medical treatment. Therapeutic thoracenteses (TT) may be indicated in these patients and can produce marked relief of symptoms. However, the underlying effect of TT on gas exchange and respiratory mechanics in theses patients remains unclear. The researchers' hypothesis is that,TT may improve arterial oxygenation and respiratory mechanics in patients with congestive heart failure complicated by large pleural effusions.